For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea. (Isa. 11:9)
Packages from Grandma were one of the highlights of our childhood. She was the best seamstress in the world and never failed to send beautiful, homemade outfits every Christmas. Our new outfits always fit perfectly, and Grandma knew our favorite colors and styles. Her gifts never failed to please. Each year we would tear into the cardboard box wrapped in recycled brown paper bags and something magical happened—the smell of Grandma’s house filled the air.
We loved the smell because it reminded us of Grandma’s hugs, kisses, and good home cooking. We could practically see and feel her. This experience was especially priceless during a time when video chats didn’t exist. The smell created a sense of her presence, and the clothing served as a physical reminder of her love. Although we never forgot Grandma or stopped loving her, the smell dissipated quickly, and we outgrew the clothes. As the gifts became a memory, we waited in anticipation for the next year and the next package.
The whole of creation shouts the presence and magnificence of the Lord and the heavens rejoice. On this Christmas day, we too rejoice that God is with us. He will never leave us or forsake us, and we celebrate his presence today and always.
Celebrate the presence of the Lord, which is God’s present to us.
Angela Golden Bryan is a graduate of Wesley Seminary at IWU. Three of her top spiritual gifts are encouragement, service, and compassion. She and her husband live in south Florida and enjoy visits from their two adult children.
© 2020 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
